Getting Euros for Cyprus
Cyprus joined the Eurozone in 2008, making it one of the easiest Mediterranean destinations for currency. As a popular British holiday destination, you'll find excellent infrastructure for tourists.
The Republic of Cyprus (the southern part) uses the Euro. Note that Northern Cyprus (Turkish-occupied area) uses the Turkish Lira, though Euros are widely accepted there too.
Best Ways to Get Euros
1. Use a Multi-Currency Card
Cards like Wise or Revolut offer the best exchange rates with no fees. Card acceptance in Cyprus is excellent — you can use cards almost everywhere including beach bars, restaurants, and taxis.
2. ATM Withdrawal
ATMs are plentiful throughout Cyprus. Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank ATMs are everywhere. Use your fee-free travel card for the best rates. Always choose "without conversion" when prompted.
3. Order Euros Before You Go
If you prefer cash, compare rates from UK providers. Post Office and Travelex offer collection services, but online-first services often have better rates.
4. Exchange on Arrival
Avoid airport exchanges if possible — rates are poor. If needed, withdraw small amounts from airport ATMs instead.
Using Cards in Cyprus
Cyprus has excellent card infrastructure. Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted. Contactless is widespread.
Where Cards Work
Hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, petrol stations, and most tourist businesses accept cards. Even beach bars and small cafes often take cards now.
Where You Need Cash
Small village tavernas, some taxis (though many now take cards), local markets, and very small businesses. Having €50-100 in cash is useful for these situations.
ATMs in Cyprus
ATMs are abundant in all tourist areas. You'll find them at airports, in every town, and at shopping centres.
Best ATMs
Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank have the most ATMs. Both work reliably with UK cards. Euronet ATMs (independent) often have higher fees — stick to bank ATMs.
ATM Tips
Always select "without conversion" or "in Euros" when asked. Never accept the ATM's exchange rate — it's always worse. Withdraw larger amounts to minimise fees if your bank charges per transaction.
Tipping in Cyprus
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Cyprus. Service is generally included in restaurant bills.
Restaurants: Round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Taxis: Round up to nearest Euro.
Hotels: €1-2 per bag for porters, €2-5 per day for housekeeping if you wish.
Bars: Not expected, but leaving small change is appreciated.
Money Safety Tips
Cyprus is very safe for tourists. Normal precautions apply:
Use hotel safes for valuables. Don't carry excessive cash. Keep cards and cash separate. Be aware of surroundings at ATMs. Have backup payment methods.
Best Exchange Options for EUR
Top providers by category for UK travellers:
Wise
Real mid-market rate with transparent fees. Best overall value for most travellers.
Revolut
Great rates weekdays. Premium plan for weekend travel without surcharge.
Post Office
Collect from 11,500 branches. Order online for better rates than in-store.
Barclays / HSBC
Order via online banking for better rates. Avoid branch counter exchanges.
Airport Bureaux
Typically 5-10% worse rates. Only use for emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Republic of Cyprus (south) uses the Euro (EUR). Northern Cyprus officially uses Turkish Lira, but Euros are widely accepted there.
Cards are accepted almost everywhere in Cyprus. However, having €50-100 cash is useful for small purchases, village tavernas, and markets.
Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted. For best rates, use a fee-free travel card like Wise or Revolut. Avoid using standard UK debit cards as they charge foreign transaction fees.
Yes, ATMs are abundant throughout Cyprus. Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank have extensive networks. You'll find ATMs at airports, in all towns, and at shopping areas.
It's not essential. Cards work everywhere and ATMs are plentiful. If you want cash, compare UK provider rates — but a fee-free travel card usually offers better value.